Police Remove Ondo Commissioner Amid Alleged ₦2 Million Monthly Levy Scandal
The Nigeria Police Force has removed Adebowale Lawal as Commissioner of Police in Ondo State following allegations of financial misconduct and internal controversy within the command.
He has been replaced by senior officer Ohagwu Felix Ndukwe, who now assumes leadership as the new Commissioner of Police in the state.
Background to Removal
Lawal, who became the 46th Commissioner of Police in Ondo State in June 2025, had overseen several security operations, including a crackdown on cult-related activities in May 2026.
However, his tenure became overshadowed by serious allegations from within the police command, which reportedly contributed to his removal.
Sources indicated that the decision was approved by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
Allegations of Monthly Levy
Multiple police sources alleged that Lawal operated a system of compulsory financial remittances, requiring officers to pay between ₦1 million and ₦2 million monthly.
According to the sources:
The demands allegedly placed significant financial pressure on officers
Some personnel were said to be unable to meet the obligations
The situation reportedly created psychological stress within the command
The allegations remain unofficial, and authorities have not publicly confirmed them.
Reported Impact on Officers
One of the most serious claims linked the alleged financial pressure to the death of a senior officer.
Sources stated that CSP Nimrod Anaka, a Divisional Police Officer in Odigbo Local Government Area, died from complications related to high blood pressure, which was allegedly aggravated by workplace stress.
These claims have not been independently verified by official police statements.
Separate Extortion Allegations
In a separate incident, a group of clerics accused officers within the Ondo State Police Command of extortion.
The clerics alleged that:
They were arrested in February 2026 at a church in Idanre
They were detained for several days
They were pressured to pay money for their release
According to their account, they eventually paid ₦2 million, along with an additional ₦300,000 allegedly requested as “fuel allowance.”
The allegations also included claims of intimidation and threats, which have not been officially confirmed.
Internal Tensions and Silence
Sources within the command suggested that:
Many officers were reluctant to speak publicly
Fear of reprisals discouraged formal complaints
Internal dissatisfaction had been building over time
Leadership Change
Following Lawal’s removal, Ohagwu Felix Ndukwe has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Police in Ondo State.
The leadership change is expected to:
Stabilize the command
Restore confidence among personnel
Address internal concerns
Conclusion
While the Nigeria Police Force has not issued a detailed official explanation for the removal, the development comes amid serious allegations of misconduct and internal unrest.
The situation highlights ongoing concerns about accountability, welfare, and transparency within law enforcement institutions in Nigeria.
Further official clarification is expected as the new leadership takes charge.